Gold Coast Sexologist, Intimacy Coach and Tantra Practitioner.
Gold Coast Sexologist, Intimacy Coach and Tantra Practitioner.
Listen up gals & guys, Valentine’s Day is here, which means it’s time to show your appreciation on that day (and every other day for that matter) towards your significant other. Whether it’s on the streets, or between the sheets, treating yourself and your partner to the love you/they deserve should be at the forefront of your mind this love month. We spoke to Gold Coast Sexologist, Intimacy Coach and Tantra practitioner, Helena Nista, on what you can be doing on Monday 14th February (and beyond) to provide the much-needed attention your partner and you should be receiving! (Code for hot top tips coming your way!) Read on to get all the juicy deets!
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I’ve been around for just over two years. I moved here after living in Melbourne, Byron Bay and Sydney and I’m absolutely loving this area!
Tell us a bit about you.
I’m a sex therapist and a Tantra practitioner. My business is not just my work, it’s my passion and I absolutely love sharing the practical tools, tips and techniques that help others have better relationships, deeper intimacy and much more amazing sex. I’m also a European immigrant. I was born and raised in Poland and I came to Australia about 13 years ago. I’m incredibly happy to be able to live here and over the years, Australians have been extremely kind, loving and welcoming towards me. I do miss my family in Europe every single day but I’m also having an absolute blast living here and calling Gold Coast my home!
How did you become a Sexologist and Intimacy Coach?
Growing up in a traditional, Catholic country meant that I experienced a lot of repression and shame around my sexuality. Over time, this led me to a variety of issues, unhealthy patterns and even sexual abuse that I experienced when I was 18 and in my early 20s. Various inhibitions, lack of proper sexual education, intense sense of guilt about my eroticism plus sexual trauma that I suffered early in life, all came together to form a crisis that I needed to address at some point. That point came in my early 30s, when I found myself in a hospital because of a sexual experience. At that point, I decided that I needed to address my poor sexual experiences and I threw myself into studying anything that I could find about having great sex. I was attending workshops, trainings and retreats on Tantra and intimate relationships, I was seeing a variety of practitioners to address my past abuse, I was reading all the books I could get my hands on and most of all – I was practicing everything that I was learning about. And slowly, I started to turn my sex life around. At that point I also discovered that I was deeply passionate about Tantra and great sex. So what started as a personal pursuit, turned into a professional career. I trained as a Tantra practitioner, a sexologist and a counsellor and for the last 8 years, I’ve been sharing my knowledge and expertise with people all over the world.
How do you help people / couples?
I originally started my practice as a local Tantra practitioner and sex therapist. But over time, I wanted to be able to help many more people and in ways that would be accessible to anyone, even people who can’t afford 1on1 sessions with me. This is when I started creating online courses, full of information and practices that most people ask me about. I also published a book “Legendary Lover”, sharing my journey from sexual repression to sexual awakening, together with all the most powerful exercises and practices that helped me and my clients along the way. And over the last few years, I’ve been sharing my knowledge through my popular YouTube channel that has recently grown to over 200k subscribers. And while I’m still available for 1on1 sessions, most people find me online and every day I receive messages of gratitude and appreciation from viewers all over the world!
What are your top tips for Valentine’s Day?
Most people are starved for proper attention. This is why this Valentine’s Day, I’d recommend to any couple to create an experience together where they’re truly and deeply present with each other. Whether it’s over an expensive meal in a restaurant or simply a glass of wine in your backyard, really showing up for your partner means being there for them with your full attention and awareness. Having deep and meaningful conversations usually opens our hearts and lifts our spirits much more profoundly than any flowers, chocolates or a necklace can. There’s nothing wrong with gifts of course but they should never become a replacement for true human connection.
How can couples heat things up this Valentine’s Day?
When it comes to the bedroom, most people respond really well to novelty. So introducing something fun, something new, something exciting will surely be a hit. Consider giving your partner a striptease, dressing up in sexy lingerie, giving them an erotic massage if that’s something you don’t usually play with. You can bring a new, fun sex toy to the bedroom or play a game where you share and then act out any sexual desires that sound intriguing to both of you.
How does a healthy sex life improve relationships?
A healthy sex life is an absolutely crucial part of any great relationship. A connected, loving intimacy is a very basic human need and creating that together can provide a deep sense of being loved, cared for, nurtured and desired. This will of course look differently to different couples so don’t try to follow any sort of idea about what you’re “supposed” to be doing together in the bedroom. Instead, create an open and honest line of communication about the authentic needs and desires between the two of you. Caring for your partner sexually means that they’ll be much more inclined to do the same for you, which will often lead to a deeper sense of connection, love and joy in your life together.
Why is it important for people to embrace their sexuality?
Sexuality is a part of human nature. When we suppress it or when we don’t give it a true expression, we cannot be healthy and whole. You can’t cut off or repress one part of your system and expect the rest of it to function well. Sexuality is also something truly unique that makes romantic relationships quite special. We can have many friends, acquaintances and family members but for a majority of people, we only share ourselves sexually with one person. Appreciating and enjoying that beautiful kind of erotic connection allows us to taste more deeply in what it means to be human.
You’re also a Tantra Practitioner; can you explain what tantra is and why people should try it?
Tantra is a philosophy that comes from ancient India. And despite what most people think about Tantra being purely sexual, it embraces every single aspect of life. Living tantrically means to be fully present, aware and alive in everything that you do. It’s also about celebrating each moment as special, beautiful and sacred. And when you apply tantric practices in the bedroom, this philosophy has the power to lift and elevate your experiences to something truly ecstatic and blissful. Tantric lovers experience much more love, pleasure and playfulness together, both in the bedroom and outside of it!
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
I think that my greatest achievement to date is what I have created in my business and in my online presence – the kind of environment where people all over the world can learn about healthy sexual practices and principles freely. A lot of my content is available on YouTube for free, meaning that quality sexual education is becoming more and more available to anybody who is looking for it. I grew up with absolutely no role models or sources of good information when it comes to sex and it really hurt me deeply. I want to make sure that nobody has to go through the kind of suffering that I had to experience because I was unable to find answers that I so badly needed.
What are you looking forward to the most about 2022?
To be honest, I’m looking forward to more of the same – more growth and expansion of what I’ve already created. I’d love to reach a lot more people online and grow my YouTube channel to even more subscribers and countries. There are still many people out there who lack basic knowledge and understanding when it comes to human sexuality and relationships. And I know that I can improve their lives!
What are your Gold Coast favourites…
Café: I love, love the Paddock Bakery in Miami – great coffee and yummy pastries!
Coffee spot: I head to Piccolo Espresso for the view – right on the beach.
Restaurant: zyou can’t go wrong with Iku Yakitori in Burleigh Heads.
Bar or pub for a drink: I recently really enjoyed The Collective in Palm Beach.
How do you choose to spend your weekends?
On weekends, I usually head for at least one nature hike. I also love coffee/brunch catch-ups with friends. Plus, every Sunday I talk to my family in Europe. Thank god for Zoom, right?
If it’s romance you want, it’s romance you’ll get here on the GC this Valentine’s Day. Hubba Hubba!
We’ve compiled a list of what’s on and where so that you can dial up the love-o-meter and treat yourself and your partner to a Valentine’s Day (or night) experience to remember.
*Please note that unless indicated otherwise, all Valentine’s Day specials mentioned take place on Friday 14th of February.
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove
Enjoy an evening of culinary enhancement with your loved one with an exquisite and flavour-filled showcase at The Fireplace. Celebrate the day of romance with a glass of Mumm Champagne on arrival, followed by an elegant five-course degustation menu designed by expert Chef Randy Tablan to captivate all senses and leave a lasting impression.
$179 per person, with prepayment and reservations required. For an extra touch of luxury, opt for wine pairings for an additional $85 and make your evening even more extraordinary.
Where: InterContinental Sanctuary Cove, Manor Circle, Hope Island
Gold Coast Gondolas
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in unforgettable style with Gold Coast Gondolas, offering private, luxury cruises through the stunning Gold Coast canals. Whether you’re starting the day with a romantic breakfast, indulging in a gourmet dinner, or toasting to love with wine and cheese, each experience is designed for pure romance. Glide through the water in a beautifully appointed gondola, complete with red carpet arrival, a Red Rose Bear, and your choice of premium dining options. With packages ranging from a charming breakfast cruise to the ultimate fine dining experience, Gold Coast Gondolas provides the perfect setting to impress your special someone and create lasting memories.
Where: Mariners Cove, 60 – 70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa
If you want to go beyond the usual and create truly magical moments, JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa is here to help. Think of them as your personal Cupid hotline, ready to make Valentine’s Day unforgettable. This year, they have all bases covered, with all-inclusive romantic getaways, restorative spa packages, decadent dining for two, and special-edition high teas. You can find all the delicious details here.
Where: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, 158 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Baba Joon
Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with a romantic dinner at Baba Joon, where every bite is a journey of flavour and tradition. Picture this: you and your special someone, cosied up over a beautifully plated grill platter, sharing tender lamb cutlets, succulent prawns and marinated chicken, all served with fragrant saffron rice. And to end the night on a sweet note? A delightful scoop of saffron ice cream or a bite of flaky, honey-drenched Baklava, paired with a cup of aromatic Persian tea. Whether it’s your first Valentine’s together or one of many, Baba Joon sets the perfect scene for an unforgettable evening.
Where: 3106 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise
QT Gold Coast
QT Gold Coast has something for everyone, from a cosy candlelit dinner to a starlit feast. Enjoy the Lovers Feast at Bazaar Marketplace with fresh seafood, slow-roasted meats, and a decadent chocolate fondue fountain or book a private Twilight Feast Under the Stars in a poolside cabana with Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial Champagne. For a unique twist, grab your BFF and join the Sip and Stain Workshop. Want more love-filled details? Check them out here.
Where: QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Avenue, Surfers Paradise
voco
Craving some relaxed romance with your honey, this Valentine’s? Make a (dinner) date with Clifford’s Grill and Lounge, because love is in the air, baby! Opt to leave the choice in expert hands of Clifford’s cupid crew – cooking up an unforgettable, three-course feast, plus a complimentary glass of wine on arrival for just $89pp. Or, see where your cravings take you (straight to the dessert menu, LBH) with la carte menu also available on the night. For extra cute-points, finish it off with a moonlit saunter by the Surfer’s beachfront.. but hey, take our love advice at your peril.
Where: 31 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise
The Langham, Gold Coast
Spoil your Valentine with five-star luxury at The Langham, Gold Coast. Stay the night with the Celebrate The Everyday package, complete with champagne, chocolates, and a dreamy buffet breakfast at Akoya. Unwind at Chuan Spa with indulgent couples’ treatments, from gold stone massages to foot soaks, all topped off with bubbles and chocolate-dipped strawberries. For an extra touch of romance, book a decadent Valentine’s Day Afternoon Tea at Palm Court. And when it’s time to dine, Akoya’s exclusive six-course degustation is the perfect way to share the love.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Surfers Paradise
Dracula’s
Fancy a date night where biting is encouraged, vanilla isn’t served, and mood lighting is a fixture? We’ve got the perfect place. Dracula’s Valentine’s Day affair is a not-to-miss for couples and frouples, looking for some spicy fun this 14th of Feb. With a three-course menu designed to tease and please, cocktails concocted to tempt, jaw-dropping aerial performances and a killer band to tie it all together (gently), your promised an evening not easily forgotten.
Where: 1 Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
The Star Gold Coast
The Star Gold Coast is making February the month of love, with indulgent dining, dreamy escapes, and even a glamorous singles party. From romantic rooftop dinners at Nineteen at The Star to Italian feasts at Cucina Vivo and flirty cocktails at Garden Kitchen & Bar, love is definitely on the menu. Want to impress? The Penthouse Private Dining Package is pure luxury, featuring a candlelit dinner, a champagne breakfast and a VIP stay. Or, say “I do” to The Darling Valentine’s Package for a dreamy overnight escape.
Flying solo? The Gold & White Singles Party on February 22 is bringing the romance with canapés, a three-course menu, live entertainment, and a 4.5-hour beverage package. And if self-love is your vibe, Azure Spa’s indulgent treatments will leave you glowing. Whether you’re all loved up or single and ready to mingle, The Star Gold Coast is making February extra special. Get all the delicious here.
Where: The Star Gold Coast, Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Soak Bath House
This Valentine’s Day, whether it’s for new love, besties, or self-care, Soak Bath House has you covered with these fabulous offers:
Beats & Bubbles
Vibe with a DJ set by ‘The David’ while soaking in pools, spas, and saunas, 4-8 pm on Feb 14. Complimentary with Soak, Soak & Sip, and Soak Essentials Sessions.
Galentine’s Glow-Up
Treat your bestie to 2-for-1 LED facials and Infrared Sauna sessions all month long.
Soak Gift Cards
The gift of relaxation! Start from just $35, delivered straight to their inbox.
Where: Shop 20, 2532/2540 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Homestead at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Enjoy a love and nature-filled evening at Currumbin’s hidden sanctuary, The Homestead. Your night starts with a scenic Twilight Train Ride through the Sanctuary and a tranquil stroll through the Roo Paddock. Back at The Homestead, you’ll be met with sparkling wine and craft beer, a romantic 4-course Valentine’s dinner inspired by local flavours (and made for romance), live music and a backdrop of kangaroos roaming at sunset. Book your all-inclusive Valentine’s Day evening here for $165 pp.
Where: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin
Kefi Cafe
If food is your love language, Kefi Café has you covered with two charming Valentine’s Day experiences.
For a romantic alfresco date, grab their Valentine’s Picnic for 2 ($150), a pre-packed spread featuring charcuterie, fresh seafood pasta, panna cotta and a bottle of Witches Falls wine. Plus, you get to keep the picnic basket—cute! Picnic is available for pick up at Kefi on Friday 14th February (pre-order only).
Or, if you’re feeling artsy, book the Valentine’s Paint A Pot workshop ($160 for two) at 5pm. Sip wine, graze on a mezze platter and paint a ceramic piece with guidance from a local artist. Your masterpiece will be fired, glazed, and ready to take home as a keepsake.
Where: 110 Marine Pde, Coolangatta
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
Disclaimer: the following content is unsuitable for those under 18 years of age.
Juliet Allen, the Gold Coast’s resident Sexologist, has shared her top tips for Valentine’s Day. But even beyond Cupid’s special day, when it comes to sexual healing, Juliet can change your life.
Here’s how.
Okay, give them to us, what are your top tips for Valentine’s Day?
My top tip is not to get to hung up on it having to be an extravagant day and instead make it your intention to be connected with your partner/lover every day.
Imagine if every day was a special day. If we took the time to truly see our beloved and be present with them, that’s what we all truly want and desire, not the love heart teddies and roses.
If you’re reading this and thinking “I still want to celebrate’, I encourage you to spend the day TRULY connecting with your beloved, listening to them, turning off your phone and being present and loving. There’s no better gift than a lover who is authentically present and wanting to connect.
So how should couple’s heat things up on Valentine’s Day?
• New couples: Do something fun – go swimming naked in the ocean together, hang at a nude beach…enjoy sex in nature. Take risks.
• Long term couples: Grab a five star hotel room for the night – get away from your every day routine and spend the night making love and ordering room service.
How does a healthy sex life improve relationships?
Sex connects us and intimacy is an opportunity to connect at all our centres; our sex centre, our heart centre and our consciousness. Connecting with our partners via sex is essential for the longevity of a relationship.
Why is it important for people to embrace their sexuality?
Our sexual energy is our life force energy! It’s inside us all and if we push it down we become sick and repressed. To embrace our sexuality is empowering and has an amazing impact on our overall health and happiness.
What are some simple things we should practice regularly at home?
Self-pleasure is essential for everyone. Also self-love and presence with ourselves and with our partners.
How did you come to be a Sexologist and Sexuality Coach?
I studied psychology as my undergrad and then years later I wanted to go back to Uni and study something I was truly passionate about. I came to the conclusion that my biggest passion was sex, so I studied a Masters in Sexology. Best career move ever!
How do you help?
I help singles and couples to feel sexually empowered and happy in their relationships. People come to me because they’re seeking deeper connection and intimacy, or they want super hot, amazing sex, or they simply want to feel more empowered within themselves as a sexual being.
Why should people work with you?
Everyone, at some stage in their lives, will come across hurdles in their sex lives and relationships. When that happens the best way to deal with those challenges is to talk to a professional. People should work with me because I talk about and help people with sex and relationships for a living. I love what I do, plus I ‘walk the talk’, so to speak.
I get what it’s like to have these challenges because I’m like every other person, I’ve had my fair share of things to work through and I now feel empowered and whole as a sexual woman. I’m fun, straight to the point and real.
Do you only work with couples?
No, I work with couples and singles of all sexual and gender identities.
You’re also a Tantra Practitioner; can you explain what tantra is and why we should try it?
Tantra is choosing with awareness what brings us joy. It’s living a life full of ecstatic experiences, including ecstatic sex. It’s about finding inner peace and inner union as individuals, and then coming together with others to experience connection and intimacy. Tantra has transformed my life.
We surely can’t be the only ones who would prefer to be in the City of Love (AKA Paris) this Valentine’s Day? So in lieu of not being on the opposite side of the world, we have the next best thing for your Valentine’s Day plans… a taste of France in a bottle. Yep, you read that right. Enter your new favourite spirit, Pampelle. An aperitif crafted on the banks of the River Charente in France. Ooh la la!
And if that isn’t enough to win you over, Pampelle, is the world’s first Ruby Red Grapefruit aperitif – so say see ya later to Aperol, and hello to the ultimate taste of romance and summer in a glass! We suggest you send this link to your significant other as a heads up of what you expect to accompany your date night or save it for your Galentine’s catch-up where you plan to binge-watch Emily in Paris!
So without further ado, here are three new cocktails to enjoy this loved-up occasion.
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Recipes courtesy of Pampelle Aperitif.
